Position Statement on Screen Time from the Canadian Paediatric Society

Screen time and young children: Promoting health and development in a digital world

The digital landscape is evolving more quickly than research on the effects of screen media on the development, learning and family life of young children. This statement examines the potential benefits and risks of screen media in children under 5 years old, focusing on developmental, psychosocial and physical health. Evidence-based guidance to optimize and support children’s early media experiences involves four principles: minimizing, mitigating, mindfully using and modelling healthy use of screens. Knowing how young children learn and develop informs best practice strategies for health care providers. 

 Read the position statement on the Canadian Paediatric Society website.